Horizon Hotel Kabwe

Hey Guys, Well i'm here. I'm in Kabwe in Zambia. It's quite warm, but last night there was a big storm. I'm staying in a hotel for the time being and i'm sharing with an aussie girl called Becca who is reaay nice. We have no hot water and no shower. In stead we have cold baths - your all envious I can tell ...

... no vehicle has travelled this way for days if not weeks! We arrived at Benjamine's home and there were around 40 people there to welcome us. I immediately recognised Benjamine who is taller than me and was clearly dressed in his Sunday best. I was introduced to his dad and his mum came running up to me and hugged me. Then we were asked to sit under a canopy and the women and kids performed some welcoming dances. Two women also ...

... time, reaching Kawambwa at around 1530hrs. Our accommodation for the next two nights was at St. Mary's Development. Our room was basic but it had an ensuite. Apparently, there are a couple of other 'hotels' but they have no running water (as in fact there is no water in Kawambawa). I went for a walk and had lots of kids waving and saying hello. A guy came up to me and introduced himself as Mwanza. He ask if I would buy him a drink and when I agreed, walk with me to a 'bar'.

... an air-raid siren blares over the music. In the hands of a competent DJ a siren can heighten the emotional effect of the music. Mushima's jockey is not so capable. Bwalya's uncle, Alex, accompanies me to the bathroom, pointing out a squat building at the back of the club. "That's where the girls stay," he says, and I get the broad hint. There's a general feeling that all is not safe and secure around here. At first I figure Alex needs a leak as well, but ...

With the night out in Kasama and the distraction of Chishimba Falls our spirits are high, despite a long stretch of road ahead. Beside the ****** food, dodgy guesthouses and towns, the driving is a pleasant, almost meditative constant in our routine. When the road is smooth I lose myself in thought; when it's rough so much the better. Driving at night we listen to Voice of America on the radio, which for some reason only works from 8pm to 8am. I look forward to night ...